Trump's Threats, Shutdown Loom as Minnesota Resists ICE

Government Shutdown Looms as Tensions Rise Over Immigration and ICE

Washington, D.C. - The United States Congress is nearing a potential partial government shutdown as a deadline approaches at the end of the week. Funding for several federal agencies is set to expire after midnight on Friday, and Senate Republicans and Democrats have yet to reach an agreement on a six-bill appropriations package, according to Time.

The deadlock is fueled by disagreements over funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Senate Democrats are objecting to a bill that includes funding for DHS unless significant changes are made, signaling their readiness to block the bill's passage, even if it leads to a government shutdown, Time reported.

The debate occurs amid rising tensions over immigration enforcement, particularly following recent ICE shootings in Minneapolis. According to Vox, these shootings have spurred "vast networks of community resistance" in the area. Time noted that the Trump Administration is expected to scale back ICE operations in the state.

The situation in Minnesota has become a focal point in the broader debate over immigration policy. Sara Herschander, a fellow for Future Perfect at Vox, wrote that "Minnesota is putting on a masterclass in peacefully defending a democracy against authoritarians."

Meanwhile, tensions are also escalating between the U.S. and Iran. Vox reported that President Trump suggested military options against Iran could be considered following interventions in protests across the country on January 28, 2026. These remarks have contributed to escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran, as debates over a possible US intervention gained wide coverage in Iranian media amid ongoing unrest, according to Vox.

The potential government shutdown comes just months after the country emerged from the longest shutdown in its history, Time noted. The current situation highlights the deep divisions within Congress and the challenges of reaching consensus on critical issues such as immigration and national security.